On the occasion of Hooked on School Days from February 10 to 14, La Clé Foundation invited the media to discover the inspiring journeys of young people living in low-income housing in Montreal. These young people, true heroes of school perseverance, face major challenges every day to succeed.
Heroes of school perseverance
Often from immigrant backgrounds and families with an average income of less than $20,000 a year, these young people face major challenges that limit their opportunities for the future. However, thanks to their determination as well as programs supported by The Key Foundation, these young people have the opportunity to overcome these obstacles and improve their chances of success.
The importance of supporting them
By supporting these young people, we are not only contributing to their future, but also to that of our society. According to Réseau Réussite Montréal, 30% of dropouts will not participate in the job market, which represents more than 2/3 of the beneficiaries of social assistance programs. Knowing that the economic situation of families has a major impact on young people's chances of success, by encouraging young people in low-income housing to stay in school, we enable them to break the cycle of poverty and make an active contribution to society. A high school diploma is their gateway to a brighter future.
Concrete initiatives
Each year, more than 1,500 HLM children are reached by the various programs of La Clé Foundation.
- Scholarships: The Foundation distributes $550 perseverance scholarships to Secondary 3 students in low-income housing projects. If the student perseveres, the bursary is renewed until he or she obtains a high school diploma.
- Internet access: Today, not having decent access to the Internet is not only a factor of social exclusion, but also, in a context of educational success, one of the causes linked to school delays that can lead to dropping out. With this in mind, the "free internet" program enables more than 500 young people a year to have access to a connection, thus reducing the digital divide and supporting their academic success.
- Educational and fun projects: Numerous projects, such as homework help and other artistic and sporting activities, run by several community organizations, are supported by the Foundation in order to strengthen school perseverance and foster young people's self-fulfilment.
"Our programs help young people in low-income housing to persevere in their school careers and thrive," points out Patsy Joncas, executive director of Fondation La Clé. "We firmly believe that supporting education means building a better future for our young people and our community."
